ACSSU080 - 'How Light from a source forms shadows and can be absorbed, reflected and refracted'BOSTES - ACSSU080

Since the widespread use of antibiotics began in the 1940s, we've tried to develop new drugs faster than bacteria can evolve – but this strategy isn't working. Drug-resistant bacteria known as superbugs killed nearly 700,000 people last year, and by 2050 that number could be 10 million – more than cancer kills each year. Can physics help? In a talk from the frontiers of science, radiation scientist David Brenner shares his work studying a potentially life-saving weapon: a wavelength of ultraviolet light known as far-UVC, which can kill superbugs safely, without penetrating our skin. Followed by a Q&A with TED Curator Chris Anderson.

GETTING STARTED:

classify materials as transparent, opaque or translucent, based on whether light passes through them, is absorbed, reflected or scattered

observe and describe how the absorption of light by materials and objects forms shadows, eg building shading

gather evidence to support their predictions about how light travels and is reflected

research, using secondary sources to gather information about science understandings, discoveries and/or inventions that depend on the reflection and refraction of light and how these are used to solve problems that directly affect people's lives, eg mirrors, magnifiers, spectacles and prisms (ACSHE083, ACSHE100)

Lead author Simone Ribero, of the department of twin research and genetic epidemiology at King’s [sic: King's College London], said: “The findings could have a significant impact for primary care, allowing GPs to more accurately estimate the total number of moles in a patient extremely quickly via an easily accessible body part. This would mean that more patients at risk of melanoma can be identified and monitored.” - Source and data from 'twins' study

Students:

Perform some preliminary background research (Internet search) and provide written evidence of their references (links)

Provide a description of their proposed 'medical instrument', how their test apparatus will be used what properties of light it will depend upon.

Show how light absorption, reflection and transmission, will be used to differentiate 'moles' from 'freckles'

Using the above method, design and build a 'medical instrument' using a simple camera/webcam or similar device to identify (colour) and count the number of moles on a persons arm.

The method/instrument must be designed so that results are repeatable (that the same count is achieved when tests are repeated using the same apparatus and subject/'patient'.

Create a spreadsheet to store, analyse and visually display (graph) the results.

Collect data from at least twenty subjects/'patients' and enter that data into the spreadsheet.

Create a document to summarise their results and include any ideas they have for improved/alternative 'medical instruments' or diagnostic tests

NOTE: This project is NOT designed to be a diagnostic tool. As a project for primary school students, it should at best be viewed as an unreliable experimental pre-screening aid. A far more sophisticated diagnostic tool is, for example, here or here

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